2023 Africa Cup of Nations: The best centre-back pairing for the Super Eagles

With the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations expanded to 24 teams, Nigeria will be looking to regain their status as kings of African football.

Coach Jose Peseiro will have big expectations to deliver as a continental powerhouse. Defense often wins championships, so resolving his center-back pairing will be crucial ahead of the tournament kickoff.

Since losing stalwarts Joseph Yobo and Godfrey Obaobona after their 2013 AFCON triumph, the Super Eagles have struggled to establish consistency in central defense.

A solid partnership at the heart of Nigeria's backline will provide a foundation upon which the latest title tilt can be built.

As Peseiro assesses his options, William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey appear primed to form an effective tandem. Here is what each brings to the table:

1. William Troost-Ekong: The reliable captain anchors the defense

Named Super Eagles captain under previous manager Gernot Rohr, William Troost-Ekong provides leadership and experience beyond his 30 years.

Comfortable with both feet, Troost-Ekong is composed under pressure and rarely puts a foot wrong. His smart reading of the game allows him to repel opposition attacks before they fully develop.

In the air, his 6-foot-2 frame makes him a dominant figure, winning headers comfortably while also posing a threat in the opposition box.

Plying his trade with top-flight Greek side POAK, Troost-Ekong has the tactical intelligence to organize those around him and should be one of the first names on Peseiro's teamsheet.

2. Calvin Bassey: Tenacious talent complements the captain

At just 24 years old, Italian-born Calvin Bassey of Fulham offers bags of potential alongside Troost-Ekong's assured abilities.

Bassey has pace, strength and tackling ability, allowing him to smother opposition attackers.

What Bassey lacks in experience, he makes up for with fearlessness in the duel and recovery speed to cover any mistakes.

While he needs to polish the attacking side of his game, Bassey's no-nonsense defending means nothing comes easy for opponents down his flank. 

Together, Troost-Ekong's reading of the game combined with Bassey's grit gives Super Eagles depth, balance and toughness through the spine of the team.

The duo have the skill sets to complement each other perfectly and smother the attacking talents of any African nation. 

With AFCON expanded to 24 teams, navigating the group and knockout stages will require defensive solidity above all.

Bonding Troost-Ekong and Bassey together at centre-back for Nigeria could be Peseiro's key to a successful tournament and restoring the Super Eagles as the pride of African football.

Ejim Kaycee

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